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Chamomile French 75 – A Classic Cocktail Twist
The French 75, a classic cocktail with a twist of sophistication, traces its origins back to World War I Paris. Named after the powerful 75mm French field gun, its combination of gin, champagne, lemon, and sugar packs a celebratory punch. For this reason, this cocktail is perfect for festive occasions like the holidays and New Year’s Eve. Our version, the Chamomile French 75, adds a delicate touch to this iconic drink.
The chamomile and thyme infused vodka from our homemade gin recipe gives our cocktail a satisfying amount of floral and herbal notes. Chamomile, lemon and thyme are a delightful match as far as our taste buds are concerned. Airy bubbles from sparkling wine help chamomile and lemon sing in your mouth while thyme balances and anchors the floral citrus notes.
Chamomile French 75 Accompaniments
Since we mentioned holidays and New Years, let’s discuss serving accompaniments to this drink. The Chamomile French 75 complements various flavors, making it an ideal choice for a range of pairings. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Savory Appetizers: Consider serving the cocktail with savory appetizers like smoked salmon canapés, bruschetta with goat cheese and fig, or bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with blue cheese. These appetizers offer a delightful contrast to the cocktail’s floral and effervescent profile.
- Sweet Treats: Offer macarons in flavors like lemon, lavender, or raspberry to complement the floral notes of the drink. Conversely, chocolate truffles or a fruit platter with ripe berries can also balance the cocktail’s bright character.
- Sweet & Savory Combo: Our Sourdough Shortbread with Pistachios is salty and buttery with a hint of sweetness, and thus the floral herbal notes of the drink provide a nice variance of bright flavors.
- Cheese Selection: A thoughtfully curated cheese board featuring a variety of textures and flavors can provide an excellent match. Consider including creamy Brie, sharp Cheddar, tangy blue cheese, and nutty Gruyère to pair with the cocktail.
- Holiday-themed Fare: For a festive touch, try serving the Chamomile French 75 alongside traditional holiday snacks. With this intention, spiced nuts, gingerbread cookies, or even miniature mince pies would work well.
French 75 Mocktail Options
For non-drinkers or those opting for a non-alcoholic option, create a chamomile-infused sparkling lemonade. Likewise, a chamomile and elderflower mocktail to parallel the cocktail’s floral essence would be another non-alcoholic option.
Crafting Delicious Moments
As the bubbles rise and the flavors mingle, this cocktail promises to become an immense enjoyment of any gathering. Cheers to memorable moments, cherished company, and the delightful effervescence of the Chamomile French 75!
Chamomile French 75
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz Chamomile-infused gin if you don't have time to make the infused gin, try making chamomile syrup*
- 3/4 oz Fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz Agave syrup substitute maple or simple syrup
- Champagne or brut sparkling wine to top
- 1 Lemon twist for garnish
- 1 Chamomile flower for garnish (dried or fresh)
- 1 sprig Thyme sprig for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the chamomile-infused gin, fresh lemon juice, and syrup. Shake well until chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled champagne flute or coupe glass.
- Top off with chilled champagne or sparkling wine.
- Garnish with a lemon twist, chamomile flower, and/or sprig of thyme.
